A BUSY country road near Alresford has reopened to traffic following the construction of a temporary steel bridge.

The B3046, at Cheriton, was closed three weeks ago when the bridge collapsed as a result of exceptional river flows.

Last week a nine-metre long steel structure was lowered into place and on Monday afternoon the road was re-opened by Hampshire County Council.

The temporary bridge is expected to remain until the summer when water levels fall and a new bridge can be constructed.

Highway bosses are hopeful that the work can be carried out during the school summer holidays to minimise disruption.

A permanent replacement bridge is currently being designed and costed by the council.

The temporary bridge is not wide enough to enable two vehicles to pass safely at the same time, so priority signs have been erected.

Drivers coming south along the A272 have to give priority to vehicles travelling from Alresford.

The council has thanked drivers for patience during the disruption.